Locking device for locking charging plug in charging socket

Abstract

The invention relates to a locking device for locking a charging plug in a charging socket, comprising at least one locking element (8), which is designed to be movable into a charging plug locking position, in which the charging plug is inserted into the charging socket. The at least one locking element releasably locks the charging plug introduced into the charging socket (1), and the locking element is further designed to be movable into a charging plug release position, in which the at least one locking element releases the charging plug in order to release the charging plug from the charging socket. Furthermore, an electronically actuatable actuator (6) is provided, which is designed to move the at least one locking element between a charging plug locking position and a charging plug release position. Furthermore, an emergency unlocking device is provided, which is designed to be able to move the at least one locking element at least from the charging plug locking position into the charging plug release position independently of the actuation of the actuator.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a locking device for locking a charging plug in a charging socket, preferably in a charging socket of an at least partially electrically driven vehicle. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a charging socket, preferably a charging socket of an at least partially electrically driven vehicle, with such a locking device, and a method for operating such a locking device. Background Art

[0002] Energy storage devices are used in various applications, such as electric vehicles, but also in other industrial sectors. In the field of electric vehicles, these energy storage devices are often referred to as traction batteries, traction battery systems, or simply batteries or battery systems. Battery systems used in electric vehicles are typically rechargeable batteries, particularly lithium-ion rechargeable batteries. These energy storage devices are typically charged via a charging socket in electric vehicles, often referred to as a "socket," "charging socket," or "charging port socket." This socket serves as an interface for the connecting terminals of an electrical plug of a charging cable, often simply called a "connector."

[0003] A particular challenge for electric vehicles is the potential for unauthorized or inadvertent removal of the charging plug from the charging socket during lengthy charging sessions at public charging stations. To address this issue, various plug locking devices have been developed to prevent the plug from being pulled out. These locking devices come in various configurations and include mechanical and / or electronic locking mechanisms.

[0004] An example of a universal standard for electronic locking mechanisms is the NACS standard (North American Charging Standard). When a charging plug is inserted into a charging socket, sensors in the charging socket detect the presence of the plug. An electronic signal is sent to an actuator, which activates the plug locking mechanism, for example, using an electromagnet or electric motor. Specifically, the actuator moves an actuator pin, which acts as a locking element, securing the charging plug in the charging socket. This prevents the charging plug from being removed during the charging process. A control unit monitors the connection throughout the charging process and ensures that the locking mechanism remains activated. Once the charging process is complete or the vehicle is unlocked, the control unit sends a signal to the actuator, which releases the mechanical lock and releases the charging plug. The actuator pin moves between a charging plug release position and a charging plug lock position. In the charging plug lock position, for example, the actuator pin is guided from the outside through a recess in the wall of the charging socket into a receiving area or plug receiving area of ​​the charging socket. There, the actuator pin interacts with a mating element of the charging plug connected to the charging socket to releasably lock the charging plug. However, in the charging plug release position, the actuator pin is retracted in such a way that it no longer interacts with the counterpart element and thus releases the charging plug again.

[0005] In the event of a malfunction of the actuator in which the actuator element becomes stuck in the charging plug locking position, there is the risk that the charging plug can no longer be removed without the work of a specialist, ultimately rendering the vehicle inoperable.

[0006] Furthermore, the actuator and its controllably retractable actuator element are typically located downward relative to the vertical axis of the charging socket in its operating position. Therefore, the gap through which the actuator pin is guided also serves as an outlet for dripping liquids (e.g., water). However, this arrangement below the charging socket increases the risk of actuator failure, as dripping liquids could drip directly onto the actuator and potentially damage it. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The object of the present invention is to develop a locking device for locking a charging plug in a charging socket, preferably in a charging socket of an at least partially electrically driven vehicle, in such a way that the functional reliability of the plug locking is further improved.

[0008] According to the present invention, a locking device is provided for locking a charging plug in a charging socket. Such a charging socket is, for example, part of an at least partially electrically driven vehicle, such as an at least partially electrically driven passenger car or an at least partially electrically driven commercial vehicle, and is used, for example, to charge the vehicle's energy storage device, which, as mentioned at the beginning, is also referred to as a traction battery or traction battery system or battery or battery system. However, the locking device according to the present invention can also be used in other industrial applications in which a charging socket is used to charge an energy storage device.

[0009] The charging socket can be releasably connected to a charging plug, which is preferably arranged on a charging cable. The locking device therefore has at least one locking element, which is designed to be movable into a charging plug locking position, in which the at least one locking element releasably locks the charging plug introduced into the charging socket, and is designed to be movable into a charging plug releasing position, in which the at least one locking element releases the charging plug to release it from the charging socket.

[0010] Furthermore, an electronically controllable or operable actuator is provided, which is designed to move at least one locking element between a charging plug locking position and a charging plug releasing position. The electronic control of the actuator is preferably performed by a control device or an electronic controller.

[0011] Furthermore, an emergency unlocking device is provided, which is designed to be able to move at least one locking element at least from a charging plug locking position into a charging plug releasing position independently of an actuator operation.

[0012] The advantage of this emergency unlocking device is that it can move the locking element from at least the charging plug locked position to the charging plug released position independently of the actuator. This significantly improves the safety and reliability of the charging process. This function allows the locking element to be opened manually or by other means independent of the electronic control system. This means that even if the actuator or electronic control system fails, the charging plug can still be safely removed to, for example, unlock the vehicle and / or complete the charging process normally. This provides a backup method in the event of a system failure, thereby improving the overall safety and reliability of the charging system.

[0013] To ensure reliable operation of the locking device, it is generally and advantageously designed, for example, that the actuator be designed to automatically and controlled move the locking element into a charging plug locking position when the charging plug is inserted into the charging socket, and to automatically and controlled move the locking element into a charging plug release position when the charging plug is released from the charging socket. These movements are triggered by an electronic control signal that indicates the actuator is in the corresponding position. Connecting and disconnecting the plug is detected, for example, by a sensor that detects the correct connection and removal of the plug and sends a corresponding signal to a control device.

[0014] According to a particularly preferred refinement, the emergency unlocking device is designed to move at least one locking element from the charging plug locked position to the charging plug released position, and vice versa, independently of the actuator. It is particularly advantageous to provide an emergency unlocking device that can move the locking element not only from the charging plug locked position to the charging plug released position, but also from the charging plug released position to the charging plug locked position. This offers several advantages: In the event of an actuator or electronic controller failure, the locking element may become stuck in the charging plug released position, which presents a safety risk as the plug could be accidentally removed during the charging process. Furthermore, the emergency unlocking device, which can also move the locking element into the charging plug locked position, ensures that the plug remains securely locked even in the event of a system failure. Furthermore, technicians and maintenance personnel may need the ability to manually move the locking element into both positions to diagnose the system and ensure that the locking device is functioning properly, which is particularly useful during maintenance or troubleshooting.

[0015] According to another particularly preferred embodiment, the actuator comprises a movable actuator element, for example an actuator pin, which is releasably connected to the locking element via an emergency unlocking connection element of the emergency unlocking device, so that the actuator element and the locking element can be moved together between the charging plug release position and the charging plug lock position. Furthermore, the emergency unlocking connection element is designed to be movable or displaceable into a release position or emergency release position, in which the connection between the actuator element and the locking element is disconnected or released, and the locking element can be transferred or displaced, preferably substantially automatically, into the charging plug release position. Specifically, this can be achieved, for example, optionally by designing the emergency unlocking connecting element to be movable from a basic position after installation to a release or emergency release position, in which the locking element is securely but releasably connected to the actuator element and can be moved together with the actuator element between a charging plug release position and a charging plug lock position by control of the actuator, in particular for emergency unlocking in the event of a malfunction of the actuator in the charging plug lock position, in which the actuator element is stuck and the charging plug is already inserted, and in which the connection between the actuator element and the locking element is disconnected or released, and the locking element can be transferred or is transferred, preferably substantially automatically, to the charging plug release position.

[0016] Specifically, for example, it can further be provided that the charging socket has a charging socket housing having a charging socket front with plug contacts, wherein preferably the actuator is arranged on the charging socket housing and / or the at least one locking element is arranged in the charging socket housing. This creates an advantageous structural unit that also allows the opening to the emergency unlocking device to be arranged in a location that is difficult to access or difficult to see, so that it is only actuated in emergency situations, for example when studying the operating instructions.

[0017] According to a particularly advantageous embodiment, it is further advantageous if the charging socket housing has at least one defined emergency release opening, through which the emergency release connection element is accessible for actuation, preferably manually and / or with a tool. This emergency release opening can, for example, be formed by at least one closable or unclosable opening, or, as described above, can simply be arranged in a location that is only difficult to access or difficult to see, in order to prevent tampering. Therefore, according to a particularly preferred embodiment, the emergency release opening is formed in the charging socket wall facing away from the front side of the charging socket, preferably in the charging socket rear wall facing away from the front side of the charging socket.

[0018] Preferably, unlocking can be performed without requiring special expertise and, if necessary, using only simple tools such as a screwdriver. Alternatively, the emergency unlocking device can also be activated by other means, such as using a Bowden cable connection. This allows emergency unlocking to be performed from an operating point that is located at a different location from the charging socket.

[0019] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, which ensures functionally secure locking of the charging plug in the charging socket, the locking element is preferably designed as a lance and / or a rod, and most preferably comprises a locking rod. The locking element has a locking element, for example in the form of a latching nose or a pawl. In the locked position of the charging plug, the locking element engages through a recess in the wall of the charging socket within the receiving area of ​​the charging plug into a mating locking element on the charging plug inserted into the charging socket as a plug pull-out protection, or cooperates with the mating locking element in a locking and / or locking manner. In the released position of the charging plug, the locking element is moved away from the area of ​​the mating locking element, in particular from the charging socket. Furthermore, it is particularly advantageous if the locking element, for example, optionally with its locking element, is linearly movable within a linear guide via a connected actuator element, or is movable by pivoting about a pivot axis, rotating about a rotational axis, or by a multi-link arrangement, so that the locking element engages through a recess in the wall of the charging socket into a mating locking element inserted into the charging plug.

[0020] Depending on the available installation space and the specific design requirements, the actuator and / or actuator element can be arranged in principle in any position, i.e., relative to the operating position of the charging socket and viewed along the height axis, at the top, bottom, or side of the charging socket or the charging socket housing. Depending on the specific position of the actuator selected, the actuator element can be extended or retracted in the locked position of the charging plug.

[0021] For example, if the actuator is located on the charging socket or on the bottom of the charging socket housing and is therefore potentially exposed to dripping water, sealing measures can be implemented to provide corresponding protection for the actuator. According to an exemplary alternative embodiment, the actuator and / or actuator element can also be located above the locking element relative to the charging socket's operating position and viewed along the height axis. This arrangement prevents water from dripping from the charging socket onto the actuator and potentially causing malfunctions. This embodiment also allows for a particularly simple emergency unlocking function: when the emergency unlocking connecting element is actuated or moved to the emergency unlocking position, particularly in the event of a malfunction in which the actuator element becomes stuck in the charging plug locked position while the charging plug is already inserted, it can be easily ensured that not only is the actuator element released from the locking element, but also that, after being released from the actuator element, the locking element preferably drops downward substantially automatically and thus can be substantially automatically transferred to the charging plug release position, in which the charging plug is released for disconnection from the charging socket.

[0022] This can be achieved, for example, by a specific and optional embodiment in which the locking element is preferably located within the charging socket, most preferably within the charging socket housing, and is guided downward from the actuator and / or actuator element and engages below in a receiving area of ​​the charging socket, preferably of the charging socket housing, that receives the charging plug, so that the locking element can releasably lock an inserted charging plug from below. It is preferably provided that the locking element is movable in the emergency unlocking position after being released from the actuator element, preferably automatically or substantially automatically dropping downward, thereby transferring the locking element to the charging plug release position. For this purpose, according to a particularly preferred and structurally simple to manufacture optional embodiment, for example, the locking element of the locking element described above is guided through a lower recess in the area of ​​the charging plug receiving space in the charging plug locking position and releasably locks the inserted charging plug, so that the locking element is movable in the emergency unlocking position after being released from the actuator element, preferably automatically or substantially automatically dropping downward. In this design, it is thus achieved that, when the charging plug is in the locked position, the actuator element moves upward together with the locking element, as viewed from the actuator, so that the locking element engages from below through the lower recess in the charging plug receiving area into a mating locking element of the inserted charging plug or interacts therewith in a locking manner. Various undercut shapes (e.g., strips, recesses, etc.) can be used on the charging plug as mating locking elements for engaging the locking element.

[0023] According to another particularly preferred embodiment, which is simple to manufacture with a compact result and ensures reliable operation of the actuator, it can also be optionally and by way of example provided that the locking element, proceeding from the actuator and / or the actuator element, is preferably guided downwards in a linear guide next to the charging plug receiving area in the direction of the height axis or vertically and engages the charging plug receiving area from below, for example with a hook region.

[0024] Furthermore, to achieve a compact design, it is advantageous, for example, if the locking element is arranged on the end side and / or projects upward.

[0025] In principle, there are various possibilities for coupling or connecting the actuator element to the locking element via the emergency release connecting element. According to an embodiment that is particularly simple to manufacture and functionally reliable, for example, provision can be made initially for the actuator element, preferably formed by an actuator pin, to be inserted into a receiving opening of the locking element and releasably accommodated therein, and then for the two components to be finally connected or locked together during final assembly via the emergency release connecting element. The initial releasable reception in the receiving opening can, for example, be provided with a certain amount of play, ensuring that the actuator element or actuator pin is released from the locking element when the emergency release connecting element is actuated or moved, and can, for example, fall downward.

[0026] According to a particularly preferred specific embodiment which is characterized by a compact structure, simple manufacturability and high functional reliability, the emergency unlocking connecting element is formed by a sliding lock pin which is movably held and / or supported on the locking element, and in a sliding lock pin connecting position the sliding lock pin connects the actuator element to the locking element so as to move together, and in order to release the connection between the actuator element and the locking element, in particular for emergency unlocking, the sliding lock pin can be moved into a sliding lock pin release position which corresponds to the emergency unlocking position.

[0027] According to an optional, specific development, for example, provision can be made for a locking element designed as a sliding latch to engage in a sliding latch recess of the actuator element, preferably a sliding latch recess designed as a transverse groove, in the sliding latch connection position, thereby connecting the actuator element to the locking element. The locking element can be moved to a sliding latch release position corresponding to the emergency unlocking position, in which the sliding latch can be disengaged from the sliding latch recess, in order to release the connection between the actuator element and the locking element, in particular for emergency unlocking. This can be achieved, for example, simply by a design in which the sliding latch has, for example, a latch portion, which in turn has a profile with a first portion and a second portion adjoining the first portion and narrower than the first portion. Thus, in the sliding latch connection position, the wide first portion engages in a preferably laterally formed sliding latch recess on the actuator element to produce the connection. However, if the sliding latch is moved into the sliding latch release position, the first portion disengages from the sliding latch recess in the actuator element, while the narrower second portion lies within the region of the sliding latch recess. This narrower second portion is dimensioned such that, in the sliding latch release position, it disengages from the actuator element and cancels or releases the connection between the locking element and the actuator element, in particular for emergency release. The latch portion itself can be formed in a simple manufacturing manner, for example by means of a preferably flat latch portion connected to the sliding latch slider portion as an extension.

[0028] In order to be able to install the locking device simply and reliably, according to a further particularly preferred construction provision, the emergency unlocking connecting element preferably has a mounting element on its side facing away from the emergency unlocking opening, and the mounting element is designed to be grasped by a worker, for example, to pre-position the emergency unlocking connecting element on the locking element and / or to slide the emergency unlocking connecting element, preferably after its pre-positioning and / or coupling the actuator element to the locking element, into a sliding latch connection position, in which the actuator element and the locking element are connected in a releasable manner.

[0029] Furthermore, in order to save space and achieve a compact design of the locking device, provision can be made for the emergency unlocking connecting element, which is designed as a sliding latch, to be slidably held and / or supported in a guide groove of the locking element, wherein it is preferably provided that the guide groove is oriented horizontally relative to the usage position of the charging socket and viewed in the direction of the height axis.

[0030] According to a particularly preferred optional and exemplary embodiment, which is simple to produce and is characterized by high functional safety, a guide groove can be formed in the upper region of the locking element facing the actuator, as viewed in the direction of the height axis relative to the usage position of the charging socket, the guide groove being preferably formed by a horizontal guide part region.

[0031] Alternatively or additionally, to increase functional safety, provision can be made for the sliding latch slide portion of the emergency unlocking connecting element, which is designed as a sliding latch, to be guided laterally on the unlocking element by being supported by a web element. To achieve a compact design, provision can also be made in this respect to arrange the mounting element, if necessary, also on the sliding latch slide portion.

[0032] According to another particularly preferred embodiment, which improves the functional safety and operation of the emergency unlocking device, it can optionally be provided that the emergency unlocking connecting element, which is designed as a sliding latch, preferably has an emergency unlocking operating element on its side facing the emergency unlocking opening. The emergency unlocking operating element can, for example, be designed as and / or have an emergency unlocking tool attachment. According to a particularly preferred embodiment characterized by a compact and easily manufacturable construction, the emergency unlocking operating element is designed, for example, as a bracket portion or arm protruding upward from the sliding latch in the direction of the height axis, which is preferably and exemplarily connected to the slide portion of the sliding latch described above.

[0033] In order to improve operating comfort, it can further optionally be provided that at least one marking is mounted on the emergency unlocking operating element of the emergency unlocking connecting element designed as a sliding latch and / or on the locking element, said marking being designed to visually indicate the position of the emergency unlocking connecting element designed as a sliding latch in the charging plug locked position or the charging plug released position, preferably via the emergency unlocking opening.

[0034] In particular, to prevent accidental operation of the emergency unlocking device, it is advantageous that, in the installed basic state, the sliding locking pin is immovably retained on the locking element by the emergency unlocking operating element and, therefore, is retained in the sliding locking pin connected position. Furthermore, in the installed basic state, the emergency unlocking operating element is preferably retained on the locking element in a manner movable relative to the locking element in a direction of relative movement that does not correspond to the direction of movement of the sliding locking pin, overcoming a spring preload. Finally, the emergency unlocking operating element is further designed to release the movement of the sliding locking pin to the sliding locking pin release position upon relative movement of the emergency unlocking operating element relative to the locking element, for example, due to a force applied to the emergency unlocking operating element (preferably overcoming the spring preload). Consequently, the sliding locking pin can be further moved to the sliding locking pin release position by the emergency unlocking operating element.

[0035] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, which is characterized by simple production and, moreover, significantly increases the overall functional reliability of the emergency release device, it is optionally provided, for example, that the emergency release operating element engages from above, preferably with a U-shaped arm, on the locking element, preferably on a guide region of the locking element, relative to the charging socket in the operating position and viewed in the direction of the height axis, wherein a latching nose is formed on the guide strip engaged from above by the emergency release operating element, behind which the emergency release operating element (preferably the U-shaped arm of the emergency release operating element) latches in a resiliently preloaded manner in the installed basic position. For unlocking, particularly for emergency unlocking, the emergency release operating element can then be displaced relative to the locking element, particularly by overcoming the preload, by applying a force, particularly a pressure, to the emergency release operating element, so that the U-shaped arm is lifted over the latching nose and the emergency release connecting element, designed as a sliding latch, can thus be moved back into the charging plug release position by the emergency release operating element.

[0036] The emergency unlocking operating element can advantageously be designed as an emergency unlocking tool attachment or have such an emergency unlocking tool attachment, so that emergency unlocking can be performed in a simple manner by means of a suitable tool (eg a screwdriver).

[0037] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is further solved by a charging socket with a locking device as described above. The advantages of the charging socket according to the present invention are the same as those already mentioned with respect to the locking device. To avoid repetition, reference is made to the above statements.

[0038] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention is also solved by a method for operating a locking device for locking a charging plug in a charging socket, in particular a locking device as described above, wherein at least one locking element is provided, the locking element being movable into a charging plug locking position, in which the at least one locking element releasably locks the charging plug when inserted into the charging socket, and the locking element being movable into a charging plug release position, in which the at least one locking element releases the charging plug for release from the charging socket. Furthermore, an electronically operable actuator is provided, which is designed to move the at least one locking element between the charging plug locking position and the charging plug release position. Furthermore, an emergency release device is provided, by which the at least one locking element can be moved from the charging plug locking position to the charging plug release position for emergency release, independently of the actuator being operated.

[0039] The advantages brought about by the method according to the invention are the same as those of the aforementioned locking device. To avoid repetition, please refer to the above description. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0040] The preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 1 A schematic perspective partial view showing an exemplary embodiment of a locking device arranged on a charging socket; Figure 2 An emergency release connecting element designed as a sliding latch is shown; Figure 3 Show the basis Figure 1 A front view of the charging socket housing; Figure 4 Show Figure 3 A charging socket housing is shown without a front wall and with a locking device mounted on the inside of the rear wall; Figure 5a Show Figure 4 A perspective illustration of the charging socket housing is shown in the pre-assembled state, with the sliding latch still unlocked; Figure 5b Show Figure 5a A detailed illustration of position A in the middle, showing the sliding lock pin still unlocked; Figure 5c Schematic detail view of a window opening revealing the emergency unlocking area, wherein the symbol for unlocking is visible; Figure 6a Shown is a view corresponding to FIG. 5 , in which the sliding latch is locked; Figure 6b Show Figure 6a A detailed illustration of the position A in the figure shows the locked state of the sliding lock pin; Figure 6c a schematic detail view showing a window opening revealing the emergency unlocking area, wherein the symbol for locking is visible; Figure 7a A schematic principle diagram showing an end-on view of a locking element of an emergency release operating element with a sliding latch in a charging plug locking position; Figure 7b a schematic detail view showing a window opening revealing the emergency unlocking area, wherein the symbol for locking is visible; Figure 7c Shown corresponding to Figure 7a Schematic diagram of a charging plug wherein the emergency release operating element of the sliding latch is pivoted away from the charging plug locking position; Figure 7d Shown along Figure 7c Partial cross-sectional view of the locking element taken along the CC line, and combined with the Figure 7c ; Figure 7e Show Figure 7d The view shown shows the sliding latch moved to the charging plug release position; Figure 7f Schematic detail view of the window opening revealing the emergency release area, in which the symbol for unlocking is visible. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] exist Figure 1 Schematically shown in FIG is a schematic perspective partial view of an exemplary embodiment of a charging socket 1 with a locking device 2. The charging socket 1 has a charging socket housing 4 with a charging socket front side with plug contacts 36. The charging socket front side is formed by a front wall 3, which is Figure 1 Shown in rear side view.

[0042] Figure 2 1 is a perspective view of an emergency unlocking connection element, which is formed here by way of example by a sliding latch 14 , the function of which is explained in detail below.

[0043] Figure 3 The charging socket housing 4 is shown in a front view with its front wall 3 and the charging socket 1 .

[0044] exist Figure 4 The figure shows the interior of the charging socket housing 4 without the front wall 3 , but with the locking device 2 already mounted on the rear wall 5 of the charging socket housing 4 .

[0045] Relative to the illustrated usage position of the charging socket 1 and viewed in the direction of the height axis, the actuator 6 is mounted on the upper wall 7 of the charging socket housing 4 and thus above the locking element 8. The locking element 8 is formed in this case in particular by an actuator rod.

[0046] The locking element 8 designed as an actuator rod is here guided vertically in a linear guide or linear rod guide 9, for example, for vertical movement in the direction of the height axis and is also guided vertically in the direction of the height axis. Figure 1 In the figure, a receiving area 37 for a charging plug of a charging cable (not shown here) is arranged laterally on the front wall 3, as an example here. The receiving area 37, which is designed in the form of a socket or socket body, also has plug contacts 36 on the end side.

[0047] As from Figure 1 It can further be seen in FIG that the locking element 8 engages with the hook region 10 below the receiving region 37 of the charging socket 1 , wherein an upwardly protruding socket engagement lug is formed on the hook region 10 at the end as a locking element 11 .

[0048] An actuator element 12, designed here as an actuator pin, projects from the actuator 6. The actuator element 12 points downward and can be activated by the electronic control unit. The actuator element 12 projects into a vertical receiving opening 13 of the locking element 8. The locking element 8 and the actuator element 12 are further connected by an emergency unlocking connecting element 14 designed as a sliding locking pin (see Figure 2 ) are interconnected and will be combined below Figures 7a to 7f This is explained in more detail.

[0049] In the assembled state of the locking device 2, when the actuator 6 is activated, the actuator element 12 and thus the locking element 8 connected thereto are pulled upwards, wherein the locking element 11 is pulled upwards through the recess 15 on the underside of the receiving area 37 (see Figure 3 ) is moved into the receiving area 37 of the charging socket and engages a correspondingly assigned locking element (not shown) of the charging plug for locking.

[0050] The releasable connection between the actuator element 12 and the locking element 8 is explained in more detail below with reference to FIG. 5 to FIG. 7 and the associated detailed illustrations: Figure 5a and details Figure 5b and 5c and Figure 6a and details Figure 6b and 6c Corresponding to the perspective Figure 4 Additional details, including Figure 5a The figure shows a pre-installed state, in which the sliding latch 14 is in the charging plug release position without any connection function, wherein this position also corresponds to the emergency unlocking position. Figure 6a In the embodiment, the sliding latch is in the charging plug locking position, at which point a connection is established between the actuator element 12 and the locking element 8 .

[0051] As from Figure 2 As can be seen in the example shown here, the sliding latch 14 has a sliding latch slide 16 with downward-pointing side rail elements 17 on both sides as lateral guides, and a mounting element 18, designed here as a handle element, for manual operation or movement. An emergency release actuator 19 connected to the sliding latch slide 16 extends upward relative to the height axis and is provided with curved U-shaped arms 20 at the ends to form an upper U-shaped guide. Connected to the sliding latch slide 16 is a latch portion 21, which is flat in this example and has a first portion 22 and a second portion 23, which is narrower than the first portion 22.

[0052] The upper region of the locking element 8 is designed as a horizontal guide region 24, which Figure 5a The right part of the area in the figure is circled by a dotted circle A, and Figure 5b The sliding latch 14 is held on the locking element 8 by its sliding latch slide 16 being guided in a guide groove 25 and, obviously, not yet fully inserted into the guide groove 25 until it abuts. The emergency release operating element 19 surrounds the guide area 24 from above and behind on the guide strip 26 with its U-shaped arms 20. In the example shown, the emergency release operating element 19 is also equipped with an emergency release tool attachment 27 pointing toward the rear wall 5, which can be used to perform at least part of the emergency release operation. The sliding latch 14 is thus held on the locking element 8 in a functionally reliable and removable manner, resulting in a secure overall connection of the assembly.

[0053] In addition, as Figure 5a Combine Figure 2 It can be clearly seen that in the example shown here, the mounting element 18 for manual displacement during installation of the charging socket 1 or the locking device 2 is also mounted positionally aligned with the emergency release tool attachment 27 .

[0054] The installation of the locking device 2 will be explained in more detail below, in particular in conjunction with Figure 5b 、 Figure 7c and Figure 7e ,in Figure 7c Shows the Figure 5b This state also corresponds to the pre-installation state, while Figure 7e Shown in top view Figure 7c Status. Figure 7e It can be clearly seen that when the sliding lock pin 14 is not inserted or not fully inserted into the guide groove 25, the flat lock pin portion 21 does not cover the receiving opening 13 in the locking element 8 with its narrower second part 23 but releases the opening 13, which corresponds to the sliding lock pin release position, so that the actuator element 12 can be inserted or pushed into the receiving opening 13 from above.

[0055] If the sliding locking pin 14 is now Figure 7e If the arrow 37 in the example shown is moved to the right, the first portion 22 of the latch portion 21 (which is wider than the second portion 23 of the latch portion 21) engages in the locking recess 28, which is designed as a horizontally extending transverse groove in this example, as shown in FIG. Figure 7e As shown. The actuator element 12 is thereby locked to the locking element 8 in a fixed and releasable manner. To perform this movement or sliding, the worker can grasp the sliding locking pin 14 on the mounting element 18 and move or displace it in a simple manner. Figure 7d The sliding latch is shown in the connected or final installed position corresponding to the locked position of the charging plug.

[0056] The guide groove 25 and / or the locking pin recess 28 are dimensioned in this case, for example, so that Figure 7d The shown locked position of the charging plug forms a stop.

[0057] To securely hold the sliding lock pin 14 in place Figure 7d Final installation position shown in or Figure 6b In the specific example shown here, a latching lug 29 for the U-shaped arm 20 is also mounted on the guide strip 26, by which the emergency unlocking operation 19 is releasably latched on the locking element 8 in the charging plug locked position.

[0058] Specifically, in the example shown here, the emergency release operating element 19 is elastically preloaded with an upwardly pointing arm 30 from the guide strip 26 or from the locking element 8 (see arrow 35), so that during installation, when the sliding locking pin 14 is moved into its final installation position, the U-shaped arm 20 can be pushed over the contact bevel 38 and then latch behind the latching nose 29 connected to or forming the contact bevel 38, as shown in FIG. Figure 6b and Figure 7a As shown in the figure. Figure 5b and Figure 7c The states before joining are respectively shown.

[0059] For example, in the event of a failure of the actuator 6 and the locking device 2 in the locked position of the charging plug, in order to urgently unlock the charging plug (not shown here) to release it from the charging socket 1, a corresponding Figure 5a The pre-assembled state is shown to release the connection between the locking element 8 and the actuator element 12 so that the locking element 8 can fall downwards to release the engagement of the locking element 11 .

[0060] For this purpose, in the example shown, a window-like opening 31 is provided in the rear wall 5 of the charging socket housing 4 in the region of the emergency unlocking operating element 19 or the emergency unlocking tool attachment 27 as an emergency unlocking opening. Figure 4 In the figure, only dotted lines are shown schematically. Figure 5c 、 Figure 6c 、 Figure 7e and Figure 7f The figures show a window-like opening 31 which is designed as an elongated hole here only as an example. These figures show the direction of the arrow B (see Figure 5a ) is an enlarged detail of the area observed.

[0061] When the sliding latch 14 is inserted, the connection between the actuator 12 and the locking element 8 is established and the locking device 2 is thus in the final installation position or charging plug locking position, as in Figure 6c and Figure 7bIn the window 31 shown in FIG, a marking 33 , namely a closed lock here merely as an example, is visible as a symbol that a connection has been established.

[0062] In the event of emergency unlocking, it is now possible to reach through the window 31 using a tool (eg a screwdriver) (see Figure 7b ) and operate the emergency unlocking operating element 19 or its arm 30. However, in order to move the sliding locking pin 14 by or with the help of the emergency unlocking tool attachment 27, it is necessary to first use a tool to apply pressure in the direction of arrow 34 to the emergency unlocking operating element 19 or its arm 30 to unlock the locking on the locking nose 29 (see Figure 7a ), so that the emergency unlocking operating element 19 and the U-shaped arm 20 overcome the elastic preload of the emergency unlocking operating element 19 and move relative to the locking element 8, and thus lift the U-shaped arm 20 over the locking protrusion 29 (see Figure 7c ). The sliding latch 14 can now be moved using a tool (preferably with the aid of an emergency release tool accessory 27) to release the connection between the actuator element 12 and the locking element 8. As a result, the locking element 8 can drop downwards into the charging socket housing 4 due to its weight, thereby in turn moving the locking element 11 downwards from the charging socket 1 and thus releasing the inserted charging plug.

[0063] exist Figure 7f In FIG. 1 , when the connection between the actuator element 12 and the locking element 8 is no longer established, the position of the sliding locking pin 14 is indicated by the marking 32 , which is here merely formed by an open lock, for example.

[0064] Reference Signs List 1 charging socket 2. Lock the device 3 Anterior wall 4 Charging socket housing 5 Posterior wall 6 Actuators 7 upper wall 8 Locking element 9 Linear rod guide 10 Hook Area 11 Locking element 12 Actuator elements 13 Receiving opening 14 Emergency release connection element 15 Gap 16 Slide lock pin slider part 17 Edge strip elements 18 Mounting components 19 Emergency release operating element 20 U-shaped arm 21 Lock pin 22 Part 1 23 Part 2 24. Guide area 25 guide slots 26 guide strips 27 Emergency release tool accessories 28 Lock pin clearance 29 Locking nose 30 arms 31 Emergency release / opening 32 Marks 33 Mark 34 Arrow 35 Arrow 36 plug contacts 37 Receiving Area 38 leaning slope

Claims

1. A locking device for locking a charging plug in a charging socket, The invention relates to a charging socket (1) having at least one locking element (8), which is designed to be movable into a charging plug locking position, in which the at least one locking element (8) releasably locks a charging plug introduced into the charging socket (1), and is further designed to be movable into a charging plug releasing position, in which the at least one locking element (8) releases the charging plug to release the charging plug from the charging socket (1). with an electronically operable actuator (6) designed to move the at least one locking element (8) between the charging plug locking position and the charging plug releasing position, An emergency unlocking device is provided, which is designed to be able to move the at least one locking element (8) at least from the charging plug locking position to the charging plug releasing position independently of the actuator operation.

2. The locking device according to claim 1, wherein The emergency unlocking device is designed to move the at least one locking element (8) from the charging plug locking position to the charging plug releasing position and vice versa independently of actuator operation.

3. Locking device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The actuator (6) has a displaceable actuator element (12), which is releasably connected to the locking element (8) via an emergency unlocking connection element (14) of the emergency unlocking device so that the actuator element (12) and the locking element (8) move together between the charging plug release position and the charging plug lock position, wherein the emergency unlocking connection element (14) is designed to be movable to an emergency unlocking position, in which the connection between the actuator element (12) and the locking element (8) is released and the locking element (8) can be displaced or displaced to the charging plug release position.

4. Locking device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that The charging socket (1) has a charging socket housing (4) having a charging socket front with plug contacts (36), wherein preferably provision is made for the actuator (6) to be arranged on the charging socket housing (4) and / or for the at least one locking element (8) to be arranged in the charging socket housing (4).

5. Locking device according to claims 3 and 4, characterized in that The charging socket housing (4) has at least one emergency unlocking opening, through which the emergency unlocking connection element (14) can be accessed in order to operate the emergency unlocking connection element.

6. The locking device according to any one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that The actuator (6) and / or the actuator element (12) are arranged at the top, bottom or side of the charging socket (1) when viewed in the height axis direction relative to the usage position of the charging socket (1).

7. The locking device according to claim 6, characterized in that The actuator (6) and / or the actuator element (12) are arranged above the locking element (8) when viewed in the direction of the height axis relative to the use position of the charging socket (1), wherein it is preferably provided that the locking element (8) is guided downward from the actuator (6) and / or the actuator element (12) and engages below with a receiving area (37) of the charging socket (1) that receives the charging plug in such a way that the locking element (8) releasably locks the inserted charging plug from below and that the locking element (8) can move downward in the emergency unlocking position after being released from the actuator element (12), preferably falling downward essentially automatically.

8. The locking device according to any one of claims 3 to 7, characterized in that The emergency unlocking connection element (14) is formed by a sliding lock pin which is movably held and / or supported on the locking element (8), wherein in a sliding lock pin connection position the sliding lock pin connects the actuator element (12) and the locking element (8) so as to move together, and in order to release the connection between the actuator element (12) and the locking element (8), the sliding lock pin can be moved to a sliding lock pin release position corresponding to the emergency unlocking position.

9. The locking device according to claim 8, characterized in that The emergency unlocking connection element (14) has a mounting element (18) which is designed to be gripped in order to pre-position the emergency unlocking connection element (14) on the locking element (8) and / or to move the emergency unlocking connection element (14) into a sliding latch connection position.

10. The locking device according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that An emergency unlocking connecting element (14) designed as a sliding locking pin is slidably held and / or supported in a guide groove (25) of the locking element (8).

11. The locking device according to any one of claims 8 or 10, characterized in that The emergency release connecting element (14) designed as a sliding latch has an emergency release operating element (19).

12. The locking device according to claim 11, wherein At least one marking (32, 33) is mounted on the emergency unlocking operating element (19) and / or on the locking element (8), wherein the marking (32, 33) is designed to visually indicate the position of the emergency unlocking connecting element (14) designed as a sliding locking pin in the charging plug locking position or the charging plug releasing position.

13. The locking device according to claim 11 or 12, characterized in that The sliding lock pin is held on the locking element (8) in an immovable manner by the emergency unlocking operating element (19) in the installed basic state and is therefore held in the sliding lock pin connected position, wherein the emergency unlocking operating element (19) is preferably held on the locking element (8) in a movably manner in a relative movement direction that does not correspond to the movement direction of the sliding lock pin in this installed basic state, preferably overcoming an elastic preload relative to the locking element (8), and wherein the emergency unlocking operating element (19) is further designed so that when the emergency unlocking operating element (19) moves relative to the locking element (8), the relative movement preferably overcomes the elastic preload acting on the emergency unlocking operating element (19), and the movement of the sliding lock pin to the sliding lock pin release position is released by the emergency unlocking operating element (19).

14. A charging socket with a locking device according to any one of the preceding claims.

15. A method for operating a locking device for locking a charging plug in a charging socket, The invention relates to a charging socket (1) having at least one locking element (8), which is designed to be movable into a charging plug locking position, in which the at least one locking element (8) releasably locks a charging plug introduced into the charging socket (1), and is further designed to be movable into a charging plug releasing position, in which the at least one locking element (8) releases the charging plug to release the charging plug from the charging socket (1). with an electronically operable actuator (6) designed to move the at least one locking element (8) between the charging plug locking position and the charging plug releasing position, An emergency unlocking device is provided, by which the at least one locking element (8) is moved at least from the charging plug locking position to the charging plug releasing position in a manner independent of actuator operation for emergency unlocking.

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